Story perspectives

Protests Surge in Bangladesh, Visa Centers Close Amid Unrest

12/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Protests in Bangladesh escalated, prompting closure of Indian Visa Application Centres in Khulna and Rajshahi for security concerns.
Demonstrators, largely students, call for Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, to return.
Protests reflect rising anti-India sentiment.
Unrest intensified after activist Sharif Osman bin Hadi's death.
The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus faces security pressures ahead of the February 2026 elections.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 Shahbagh protests in Bangladesh began on February 5, ignited by the life sentence of war criminal Abdul Quader Mollah, leading to over 100 deaths amid violent clashes. These protests highlighted deep-seated frustrations with the Awami League government, led by Sheikh Hasina. Today’s unrest reflects ongoing political instability, as students demand Hasina's return and express rising anti-India sentiment ahead of the 2026 elections.

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Story summary

Protests in Bangladesh escalated, prompting closure of Indian Visa Application Centres in Khulna and Rajshahi for security concerns.
Demonstrators, largely students, call for Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, to return.
Protests reflect rising anti-India sentiment.
Unrest intensified after activist Sharif Osman bin Hadi's death.
The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus faces security pressures ahead of the February 2026 elections.

1 / 2